With age, some daily activities can become more challenging. Many older adults find themselves needing some sort of professional support for their everyday activities. This is often due to physical changes that affect a person’s balance. While professional care can make a significant difference, what causes balance problems?
Some common balance problems develop due to:
- Medication side effects
- Inner ear problems
- Neurological conditions
- Muscle weakness
- Vision impairment
So why do these develop, and how can you help?
Medication Side Effects
Many medications come with side effects. Some affect the organs, others affect blood thickness, and others can affect the brain. This can easily lead to dizziness or drowsiness, which increases the risk of falls.
If your loved one is experiencing balance problems, ask about their medication. Some common medications known to cause balance problems include:
- Blood pressure drugs
- Antihistamines
- Antidepressants
- Sedatives
- Muscle relaxants
- Anti-seizure medications
It helps to work with their healthcare professional to review their prescriptions. Being proactive is key—falls can be detrimental and cause much worse problems.
Inner Ear Problems
The inner ear plays a vital role in balance. When it’s not functioning properly, it can easily lead to dizziness and vertigo. These sensations are unsettling and can cause a person to feel unsteady on their feet. This then increases the risk of falls and harm.
Some common signs of inner ear problems include:
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Feelings of fullness or pressure in the ears
- Sudden hearing loss
- Frequent ear infections
- Nausea or vomiting when moving
- Difficulty focusing eyes
If a senior experiences symptoms related to inner ear problems, seek medical advice. A visit to an audiologist can help diagnose and treat these issues effectively. A healthcare professional can also work with your family to find the underlying cause of your loved one’s inner ear problems.
Neurological Conditions
The human brain is unbelievably complicated. It controls everything—including balance. When there’s a disruption in the brain, it can easily lead to balance problems. Some common neurological conditions that affect seniors include:
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Stroke and brain damage
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia
These conditions don’t just affect the brain. They all cause a unique range of physical challenges as well. They can disrupt how the brain communicates with muscles or entirely change how it processes information.
If you suspect your loved one is living with a neurological disorder, visit a healthcare professional as soon as you can. These conditions are extremely complex and can significantly affect your loved one’s quality of life.
Muscle Weakness
As we age, our muscles gradually decline—especially if your loved one doesn’t regularly exercise. This can develop due to plenty of potential causes, but one common problem is called “sarcopenia.” This is the age-related loss of muscle mass that develops with advanced age.
When muscles weaken, it becomes harder for seniors to support themselves during movement. This lack of strength can make it challenging to maintain balance, increasing the risk of falls. Everyday tasks, like standing up from a chair or walking up stairs, can become difficult without adequate muscle support.
Muscle weakness doesn’t just affect strength. As muscles lose their mass, the body struggles to respond quickly to changes in position. This can lead to slower reflexes and a higher chance of losing balance. By understanding these challenges, we can better support seniors in managing and improving their muscle health.
Vision Impairment
Vision is much more important than you think. When a person experiences poor vision, they may deal with issues with their depth perception. As eyesight deteriorates, navigating familiar environments can be challenging. This often leads to a higher risk of stumbles and falls as it’s much more difficult to see obstacles.
Older adults rely on their vision constantly. Your loved one should regularly visit an optometrist at least once every year to have their vision checked. This helps catch potential problems before they affect your loved one’s everyday safety.
If your loved one has poor vision already, it helps to:
- Install bright, non-glare lighting in frequently used areas.
- Add contrasting color strips on steps or edges to improve visibility.
- Ensure frequently used items are within easy reach to avoid unnecessary maneuvering.
- Provide magnifying tools or reading glasses for detailed tasks.
Simple changes like these can help your loved one feel more secure as they move around their home.
Safety & Security Every Day
Your loved one deserves to feel safe and secure in their everyday life. By learning more about the common causes of balance problems, you can effectively help your loved one stay safe.
For more personalized support, contact our team here at Somerby St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. We’re proud to offer a community where we can support your loved one every day. Schedule a visit with us today to learn more!